Knee Replacement Surgery in Costa Rica
Are you considering knee replacement surgery in Costa Rica? But perhaps you are worried about the costs and quality of treatments. We may be able to help. This guide covers the treatment costs for Total Knee Replacement (TKR) and Partial Knee Replacement (PKR) surgery. Learn more about the top hospitals in Costa Rica, the best surgeons, and how to get there.
Total Knee Replacement (TKR) - Animation. Video Courtesy: Dr. Anand Jadhav
Top 5 Reasons to Choose Costa Rica for Knee Surgery
Costa Rica is affordable! Medical treatments are usually about 30 - 70% cheaper than the US and Canadian prices.[1]
Here are five more reasons why San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, is so popular with foreign patients:
- Internationally Recognized Hospitals: JCI, AAAASF, AAAHC accreditations.
- Easy Accessibility: 4.5 hrs from NYC & 5 hrs from Toronto / Montreal.
- No Waiting Lists or Delays: Swift diagnosis and treatment plans.
- Safety and Security: Politically stable country[2] & best healthcare system.[3]
- Top Ecotourism Destination:[4] Heal while enjoying the scenic beauty.
Cost of Knee Replacement Surgery in Costa Rica
Knee replacement surgery costs in Costa Rica can vary between $15,250 and $29,250. But, the US hospitals charge as high as $70,000 for a total knee replacement.[5]
For more clarity, let us look at the cost comparison table below.
| Procedure | US | Costa Rica |
| Total Knee Replacement (Unilateral) | $20,000 – $30,000 | $15,250 – $16,450 |
| Total Knee Replacement (Bilateral) | $40,000 – $70,000 | $27,250 – $29,250 |
| Partial Knee Replacement (Unilateral) | $18,995 – $25,000 | $12,750 – $13,950 |
| Revision Knee Replacement Surgery | $34,000 – $73,000 | Request Price |
| Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement Surgery | $18,500 – $20,000 | Request Price |
| *Unilateral: one Knee; Bilateral: both knees | ||
**Prices are subject to change. We advise you to fill out our online quote form for the latest prices.
The all-inclusive package price includes:
- Private transportation: 1 airport and 3 hospital roundtrip transfers
- Hospital costs: Surgery room, equipment, supplies, medications, etc.
- Hospitalization (if needed): Companion can stay at no extra cost
- Medical team fees (surgeon, assistant, and anesthesiologist)
- Pre-operative exams: Blood tests, ECG, preliminary evaluation
- Pre-op and post-op appointments with lead surgeons
On average, you can save up to 30 - 50% of your US costs. It can be an affordable option, especially for those who cannot afford private surgery costs.
Please consult with our experts today to know more about procedure details, payment programs, and package plans.
Best Orthopedic Hospitals in Costa Rica
You can find top-notch orthopedic clinics in Costa Rica. However, before heading over to Costa Rica, you have to ensure that you’re in one of the best knee replacement hospitals employing top knee surgeons in Cost Rica.
For knee replacement patients, the two hospitals that stand out in Costa Rica are:
The hospital provides advanced medical care in 80+ specialties and partners with expert, board-certified doctors.
The hospital is accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the Costa Rican Accreditation
- 90+ Years of Excellence
- 80+ Specialties
- JCI Accredited
Clinica Biblica ranks as one of the best JCI accredited hospitals in Latin America. Its 60+ specialties make it a popular destination for medical tourists.
It is a high-quality medical facility with 120 in-patients & 5,000 out-patients daily. Clinica Biblica also has its own dedicated Medical Tourism department.
English & Spanish speaking staff tend to the needs of foreign tourists there. The hospital has a 24-hour clinical lab and top-class modern care facilities.
It also boasts access to the country’s best doctors and international-grade medical equipment.
It belongs to the IHC Hospital Consortium International, a Texas-based hospital chain.
Certified by JCI and the Latin American Quality Institute (LAQI), Hospital CIMA has an excellent reputation for delivering high-quality medical care.
It adheres to both Costa Rica's medical privacy standards and HIPAA
- 20+ Years Of Experience
- JCI Accredited
- LAQI Certified
CIMA ranks among the best JCI-accredited[6] hospitals in Latin America. It is part of the International Hospital Corporation, a Texas-based hospital chain.
CIMA is also certified by the Latin American Quality Institute.
It was the first hospital approved for Quality Processes by the Ministry of Health in Costa Rica.
In addition to the state-of-the-art infrastructure & technology, the orthopedic team has extensive national and international experience managing complicated cases.
With MTC, you can look forward to a safe and satisfying journey to Costa Rica.
Choose from some of the best surgeons in San Jose, with a customized surgery package created by our in-house experts.
Top Knee Surgeons in Costa Rica
Dr. Víctor Eduardo Álvarez Murillo
20+ years
Expertise
Knee Arthroscopy, fracture management, knee diseases
Education
University of Costa Rica
- Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon
- Member of the Association of Medical Professionals of the Clínica Bíblica Hospital
- Member of the Costa Rican Orthopedic Association
Dr. Alexander Valverde Retana
20+ years
Expertise
Cervical fusion, Cervical spine fracture surgery, Meniscectomy
Education
University of Costa Rica
- Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon
- Member of American Association of Orthopedics Surgeon
- Member of Latin American External Fixation Society & North American Spine Society
- Member of College of Physicians and Surgeons of Costa Rica, CMC
Dr. Bernal González Gutiérrez
10+ years
Expertise
Joint Reconstruction (Hip and Knee), Knee Arthroscopy
Education
University of Costa Rica
- Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon
- Private consultation at Hospital Clínica Bíblica
Dr. Mauricio Eugenin Hernández
10+ years
MS
Expertise
Total knee arthroplasty, Knee cartilage surgery
Education
University of Medical Sciences (UCIMED), Costa Rica
- Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon
- Bone Reconstruction Fellowship - Curitiba, Brazil
- Member of the Board of the Costa Rican Association of Orthopaedics and Traumatology - San Jose, Costa Rica
Dr. Manuel Chavarría Alvarado
10+ years
MS
Expertise
Sports Medicine, Knee surgery, Ankle arthroscopy
Education
Autonomous University of Central America - Autonomous School of Medical Sciences, Costa Rica
- Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon
- Member of American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS)
- Member of Costa Rican Orthopedic and Traumatology Association (ACOT)
Dr. Akira Kobayashi Pinto
10+ years
MS
Expertise
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery, Knee arthroscopy
Education
. Autonomous School of Medical Sciences of Central America
- Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon
- Member of American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - AAOS
- Member of Costa Rican Association of Orthopedics and Traumatology
- Member of the Latin American Society of Orthopedics (SLAOT)
Knee Surgeon Reviews in Costa Rica
US patient testimonial for total knee replacement in Costa Rica
Mr. Charles Rychner from Milwaukee, US, came to Costa Rica for knee surgery as his insurance in the US would not cover it. To know what he has to say about his treatment and how he could save 40,000 USD coming to Costa Rica with the help of MTC, Check the video testimonial!
Knee Replacement Hospital Reviews in Costa Rica
Mauricio Navarro, USKnee surgery in Costa Rica
Best health care provider in Costa Rica!
For emergency cases or consults, assistance is immediate. Has some of the best doctors in Costa Rica, has also won several prizes.
Denise, USKnee surgery in Costa Rica
I really like CIMA & all of their doctors!
Highly recommend their services as the best in Costa Rica – they certainly have the best diagnostic equipment in the country.
How to Reach Costa Rica
The international airport of Costa Rica is Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). It takes between 3 and 7 hours to fly to Costa Rica from most US cities.
International flights include American Airlines, US Airways, Air Canada, Continental Delta, and Juan Santamaria.
Flying time from US cities to San Jose Airport (SJO), Costa Rica
There are bus services that connect San José with neighboring countries. It includes Panama, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, Mexico, and Guatemala.
While some may travel to Costa Rica by land, most visitors arrive by plane. You can use these bus services to travel around Costa Rica.
American and Canadian travelers can enter Costa Rica without a visa. All European Union citizens also enjoy Visa-exempt travel.
All you need is a valid passport and a prepaid airline ticket. They can stay up to 90-days in Costa Rica.[7]
Should you need an extension, you can submit a request with the Office of Temporary Permits of the Department of Immigration in Costa Rica.
Medical Tourism in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of the most affordable medical destinations for surgical procedures. Each year, it receives many international tourists and has an ideally-suited infrastructure for medical tourism.
Most professionals there have international training and experience and an excellent level of English.[8]
Costa Rica Sea
Aside from its natural and cultural attractions, the country has top-notch recovery facilities and spas. These places offer patients a comfortable and supportive environment to recover after a procedure.
Most facilities have 24-hour nursing services, all-inclusive meal plans, and massage parlors.
Top 5 Things To Do in Escazu, Costa Rica
Escazu is a small but beautiful tourist destination worth a visit. It is famous for its incredible natural scenery and luxury shopping malls. Here are a few things to do in Escazu:
1. Explore the Mariposario butterfly kingdom. It is a small but well-kept place for thousands of butterflies.
2. Enjoy a Coffee Tour at the El Toledo coffee plantation. See the coffee harvesting process and enjoy the taste of authentic organic coffee.
3. Do a rainforest night tour in rainmaker park to enjoy the wonders of nightlife.
Butterfly Kingdom
Rainmaker park
Multiplaza
4. Explore Escazu's food stalls and cuisine. Don't miss the Nau sushi lounge and Park Cafe for some truly authentic local food.
5. Shop at the Multiplaza mall. Many international brands cater to the whim of shoppers here. It is often known as the Beverley Hills of Costa Rica.
There is no shortage of well-maintained hotels at Escazu for accommodation. Hotels Real Intercontinental (5-star) & Alta las Palomas can be the best choices.
Conclusion
Knee replacement in the US can cost almost 50% more than in Costa Rica. You also get top-notch care in world-class facilities. These aspects make Costa Rica a popular medical tourism destination, attracting 20,000 people every year.[11]
You can be at ease traveling to Costa Rica for your knee replacement surgery!
Did you find answers to all your questions? Feel free to connect with us. Our team can help create a customized travel package for you, considering your specific condition.
FAQs
The cost of total knee replacement (TKR) in Costa Rica San Jose is $15,250 - $29,250 without insurance. In the US, the same surgery costs as high as $70,000.
Uninsured Americans can save over 50% by going to Costa Rica for knee replacement.
An artificial knee will usually last between 10-15 years.[9] The durability also depends on the material used and how much you use your knee.
A knee replacement surgery lasts for 1 to 3 hours. Post-surgery, the recommended hospital stay is usually for one to three days. [10]
You would be able to resume most normal activities within three to six weeks following surgery. Though there might be a minor pain for a couple of weeks after surgery, it will subside in time.
An exercise regimen & an iron-rich balanced diet will help recover fast. It is advisable to consult and work with a physiotherapist. It will help speed up your healing and recovery.
The best knee replacement hospital in San Jose today is Clinica Biblica. The quality care patients receive is at par with prestigious North American Hospitals.
CIMA is the best knee replacement hospital today in Escazu, Costa Rica. It is famous for its clinical and service excellence.
References
- CNBC: Costa Rica’s health care system beats the US
- US News: Overview of Costa Rica
- The Commonwealth Fund: Lessons from Costa Rica
- Enchanting Costa Rica: Costa Rica Tops the World in Eco-Tourism
- BCBS: Extreme Cost Variations for Knee & Hip Replacement Surgeries
- Joint Commission International: JCI-Accredited Organizations
- Costa Rica Embassy: Entry Requirements to Costa Rica
- International Living: 6 Countries with the Best Healthcare in the World
- Harvard Medical School: How long will my hip or knee replacement last?
- AAOS Ortho Info: Total knee replacement
- The Tico Times: Costa Rica remains popular destination for medical tourism